I am a popcorn fiend. I love the crunch, the flavor, and the simplicity of popcorn. I have a special microwave popcorn popper that requires no oil. I don’t even put salt or butter on the finished product. Just plain ole popcorn is quintessential comfort food for me.

Imagine my surprise recently when my son-in-law Ron offered me some popcorn that he’d sprinkled with nutritional yeast. I was skeptical at first, but I will admit the yeast added a nice extra cheesy flavor. I had it sprinkled on popcorn a few more times when visiting his kitchen before saying, “Can you tell me what brand you’re using? I’m going to order some of my own.” He and my daughter Liz immediately said, “We have a huge container. Just borrow some from us to start.”

So, last night, I popped up my popcorn and then sprinkled on a tablespoon of nutritional yeast. I liked the nutty flavor and have decided this is a great addition to my food obsession. Today, I googled, “Is nutritional yeast good for you?” Below, I have copied and pasted the response. I believe I’ll be adding this ingredient to my soups and sprinkling it on top of vegetables as well. I may have to bite the bullet and order some of my own!

Thanks, Ron, for introducing a nutrition enhancer to my popcorn addiction. Though popcorn already has lots of fiber, the yeast adds vitamins, minerals, and all nine amino acids as well. Who can beat that?

Read below for why this yeast is nutritional:

What are the benefits of nutritional yeast?

Womenshealthmag.com

Thanks to its impressive nutritional label, this cheesy stuff can benefit plant-eaters and omnivores alike.

1. It promises complete protein.

Most sources of plant-based proteins are “incomplete” proteins—a.k.a. they don’t contain all nine essential amino acids that animal proteins do. But nutritional yeast is one of the few vegan options that does qualify as a complete protein, according to dietitian Elizabeth Hurley, RD.

2. It offers some fiber.

While the equivalent amount of grated Parm would tout zero grams of fiber (according to the USDA), nutritional yeast contains about four grams per serving. In addition to helping you feel full, fiber also promotes digestive health, says Hurley.

3. It provides much-needed vitamin B12.

Nutritional yeast is packed with vitamins, including vitamin B12. This nutrient is a big deal for producing red blood cells and maintaining a healthy nervous system—and deficiency can put you at risk for anemia.

Since we typically get B12 from animal products like eggs, meat, fish, and dairy, vegans and vegetarians often fall short, says Palinksi-Wade. That’s where nutritional yeast comes in: Just one serving every couple of days can help animal-free eaters meet their needs.

4. It could help lower your cholesterol.

“Nutritional yeast contains beta-glucan, a type of fiber that has been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels,” says McGrane.

Known for its heart-health benefits, beta-glucan is also found in certain whole grains, like oats and barley.

5. It’s packed with antioxidants.

According to McGrane, nutritional yeast has a high concentration of antioxidants, particularly glutathione, “which is essential for protecting cells against damage and eliminating toxins from the body.”

Having enough glutathione in your system becomes increasingly important as you age and your production of the antioxidant declines.

6. It can stabilize blood sugar levels.

Since nutritional yeast is a low-glycemic food, it can help you regulate blood sugar levels. That means fewer cravings, better energy levels and sleep, and a lower risk of metabolic disease.